Norfolk and Norwich Operatic Society presents The Witches of Eastwick

So on Tuesday night myself and Nanny Cora had a little soiree at the Norwich Theatre Royal to see the annual Norfolk and Norwich Operatic Society’s (NNOS) production, this year being The Witches of Eastwick. Now usually I wouldn’t write a review of an amateur production but because the NNOS were so good and it was far from amateur in my eyes I have decided to share my evening with you all, albeit a tad late so I apologise about that; but as they say in Fairy-tale Land, better late than never (they might not actually say that, but, oh well). I am not familiar with the NNOS work, this is the first time I have seen one of their productions but I tell thee now this will definitely not be my last visit to see the NNOS. I am aware they only do their one mayor production at the beginning of each year at the Theatre Royal but I saw in the programme they are doing Monty Python’s Spamalot in May at the Norwich Playhouse so that will be interesting too. I am also not familiar with the musical Witches of Eastwick, I have heard about it of course and heard the odd song but that is all; so this was a night of many firsts for me.

The Witches of Eastwick is firstly based on the 1984 novel by John Updike which later transformed into the 1987 film with a star studied cast of Jack Nicholson, Michelle Pfeiffer, Cher (love Cher) and Susan Sarandon. I have to share a little secret with you all now, I have never seen the film – how embarrassing to admit – so I do not know if it is a musical or just a film. Anyhow all this was transformed into a stage musical in 2000 thanks to the great Cameron Mackintosh. With book and lyrics by John Dempsey and music by Dana Rowe the score is fun but not something that has stayed in my ear like some musicals. Dirty Laundry is a catchy beat and Dance with the Devil was a fun number to watch but apart from that not much else has stuck.

The cast of the NNOS were fabulous and the thing I loved the most (usually with any amateur performance I see) is how much fun you can see every single person on stage having. The time and effort each cast (and crew) member puts into a performance is fantastic and all their personal time given up over the weeks and months beforehand preparing for the show and rehearsing. A huge huge huge round of applause from me to all of them is due. The president of the NNOS, Helen Mcdermott (who I have only just been able to Google who I remember from Anglia TV as a child haha!) is president of this esteemed society and I would love to join (however my singing and dancing are appalling – I am sure there is a musical about a young handsome man who couldn’t sing and dance – I can star in that J).

The three beautiful ladies (I wouldn’t dare call them witches) are played by Claire Chandler portraying Alexandra, Andrea Ferguson as Sukie and Kathryn White as Jane. Chandler is so sassy on stage she was fabulous, she reminded me of someone but I don’t know who. She had a lovely voice and you could tell she liked playing the mumsy one. I fell in love with White’s performance, she reminded me of Sierra Boggess (you should know who she is musical theatre addicts but if you don’t google her – beautiful lady). Nanny Cora loved Ferguson, she was tiny yet powerful, she had some great scenes and funny songs and I think for me she was my favourite character. The devil in disguise, Daryl Van Horne, was played by Terry Boast. I liked Boast’s performance he definitely had great stage presence but I did feel he was trying to be Nicholson (and I haven’t even seen the film lol!). Other characters who stood out for me were definitely Harriet Chambers playing the village busy body (everyone has one), Felicia. Alisha Hart plays the Little Girl, she had a lovely voice and for no fault of her own I didn’t really understand her character though. Joshua Gould played the butler Fidel and he received an amazing reaction from the audience he was so subtly funny was great.

The NNOS put on a really good show and I was so impressed with their professional approach to musical theatre. As I said before I will definitely be visiting this society again, next year they have announced they will be doing Top Hat, another favourite of Nanny Cora’s so I guess I will be taking her there in 2018. The NNOS put so much time and effort into their costumes and staging (I always wondered if they buy new clothes or the actors just wear some of their own, this is why I need to get into amateur dramatics to answer all these unanswered questions). I can tell that they have spent ages planning, rehearsing and that everyone on stage is putting so much effort into their performance. The leading ladies and guys deserve a standing ovation; Nanny Cora said to me you would think this was a touring production and not a group of Norfolk folk on stage (no offence to the Norfolk people I am one of you). TheNNOS and The Witches of Eastwick end their time at the Theatre Royal for another year today with two performances – best of luck to all involved. I cannot wait to come next year and see Top Hat and Spamalot later in the year.

La Cage Aux Folles, UK Tour

Yesterday myself and my Beez popped to the Norwich Theatre Royal to see the brand new spanking touring production of La Cage Aux Folles. I have been so excited to see this for years and so has me Beez. I have loved the song, ‘I am what I am’ for ages. It is also no secret that I am a fan of drag so an amazing song plus a group of guys with make-up on and wearing sparkly dresses, I was bound to be interested in this musical. There has not been a production in the UK since 2008 which was in the West End and there has never been a UK tour before (thank you Bill Kenwright). I have watched the adaptation of the musical, The Birdcage starring Nathan Lane and Robyn Williams, which is in essence the same story. It was originally based on the French Jean Poiret play of the same name. The story sees gay couple Georges and his partner Albin who is a drag star at their nightclub. Their son, Jean-Michel, meets the love of his life who just happens to be the daughter of the local homophobic politician – great! When the two families are due to meet to bless their child’s marriage, well you can imagine how awkward things become. The 2008 revival in the West End received 7 Olivier nominations, winning Best Musical Revival and Best Actor in a Musical for Douglas Hodge as Albin.

This production stars John Partridge as Albin, Adrian Zmed as Georges and Marti Webb as Jacqueline. Partridge is a wonderful Albin but an even more fabulous Zaza (his drag act). Partridge’s camp, London accent was hilarious and I enjoyed most of his singing (too deep at times). His ad lib during his solo drag interactions with the audience were classic and he had the whole audience laughing away. Put it this way Partridge is a better Zaza than he is Billy Flynn. Star of Broadway, Television and Hollywood, Zmed, plays the role of Georges extremely well; I like to think of him as a man with too many dilemmas in his life that are simply just not worth it. Marti Webb (I am so pleased to have seen musical legend Webb sing on a stage) plays the gay couples sassy restaurant owning friend. The only problem with Webb is that she is not in the show enough with only very brief singing parts, but I was so excited to see her sing and she did not disappoint. Dougie Carter plays the couple’s son, despite being an ignorant character for the most part he has an extremely warm and powerful singing voice, I would be tempted to say that for me he had the best voice of the night. My Beez loved Samson Ajewole as Jacob, the couple’s butler (although he is a maid for the most part). There are seven guys who play Les Cagelles, Zaza’s drag entourage who do a grand job. I have to say I felt like Michelle Visage n an episode of Drag Race, seeing glimpses of Shangela and Alyssa Edwards.

The loveable Harvey Fierstein (Hairspray, Kinky Boots) writes La Cage book with music and lyrics by the amazing Jerry Herman (Hello Dolly). Herman’s score has the awesome hit, ‘I am what I am’ which Partridge makes very emotional at the end of Act 1. The score also includes catchy songs with intricate lyrics including the title song, We are what We are (a version of I am), On my arm, Look over there and the Best of times, with a very beautiful and snazzy finale. These songs do stick in your head, with gay rights song, I am, being something I often sing in the shower or while preparing the Sunday roast. This Production directed and choreographed by Martin Connor and Bill Deamer respectively, La Cage has set and costume design by Gary McCann. I have to say the costumes for the drag characters are absolutely awesome, and I would not turn any of them down once this production comes to its natural finish. They were everything you want, glittery, feathery, wavy, silky, mesmerising. The set was grand and I particularly liked at points how the side of the stage, we could not see was made to be like the stage of the nightclub and we saw backstage on the stage, really effective. Complementing the costumes how can I leave the wigs out, designed by Richard Mawbey. Blonde, rouge, brunette but my favourite were definitely the purple versions – wonderful draggy wonderful.

La Cage Aux Folles is a must see for anyone that is a fan of drag, female impersonation, but also if you are a supporter of a modern way of living and supporting the cause to get rid of old fashioned homophobic views. The musical will make you laugh and it might even make you cry. It will definitely get you singing (if you know the score) and be careful not to be caught by Zaza’s solo drag attack. Partridge has really made this character his own in a great way. The production remains at the Norwich Theatre Royal until Saturday 21^st January; seats available for all the evening performances with matinees Thursday and Saturday. After Norwich you can catch this production all over the UK, including: Nottingham, Blackpool, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Leeds, Birmingham, Bristol, York, Salford, Wolverhampton, Liverpool, Bradford, Sunderland and Brighton with more dates to be announced. Also coming up at the NTR soon: The witches of Eastwick (Norfolk and Norwich operatic society), Matthew Bourne’s Red Shoes and Thriller Live. Please get in touch and let me know about your musical experiences; remember I am what I am, @AaronBurgess89.  

Dreamgirls at the Savoy Theatre

It was an overdue trip to the West End for myself and ma Beez last weekend to see the new Broadway sensation, Dreamgirls, which arrived at the Savoy Theatre in November 2016. We had such a laugh as we always do. Most of which I cannot even remember as I am sure ma Beez would agree. Secondly the thing that has stuck in my mind that I need to share was the Olive situation we got ourselves into at Zizzi’s Italian restaurant on The Strand. I had a voucher code to get two glasses of bubbly and some olives, which I later found out Beez doesn’t like. FYI you will not find this funny, the only people who will are us but I am still documenting this HAHA. So I start eating the olives but I then become bloated and they are making me feel sick. So instead of being normal and just leaving them, I feel guilty and want to hide the evidence of not eating olives to avoid negative judgement from the waiter. Where best to hide them but in the table advertisement poster on the table next door, which at this point is unoccupied. So we sit and chat, laughing like school girls at the fact we have hidden olives. When a couple sit next door with their young child, I start to have a panic attack. It felt like hours they were sat there, with these criminal olives, not even realising. Then the man goes and orders olives for his starter, this is hilarious, some on your table already mate. Then the man lifts up the table advertisement, the olives fall around on the table, me and ma Beez are dying with laughter and embarrassment and the waiter clears them off their table, with an empty olive dish sat on our table in prime view. Oh my god, how embarrassing, but funny. See told ya, you wouldn’t find it funny.  

Dreamgirls opened on Broadway in 1981 and since has never ever made it to the West End, which is ridiculous in my mind. The musical tells the fictional story of a RandB girl group, The Dreams, and their struggles to make it to the top. The dreams are the main band in the musical and the story sees their success and failures play out. The production won six Tony awards, including Best Book, Best Leading Actor and Actress, Best Featured Actor, Choreography and Lighting (losing out to Nine for Best Musical). The musical was transformed onto the big screen in 2006 starring Beyoncé, Jennifer Hudson, Jamie Foxx and Eddie Murphy. I love parts of the film but I thought some parts dragged a bit, the ladies songs are fabulous and some of my favourite musical songs ever. As I said last year was the first time Dreamgirls had played across the big river in London and it has been getting a lot of hype and bookings are continuing to be taken until October 2017, we will see how they fare at this year’s Olivier’s also.

Overall the production of Dreamgirls is a must-see, it has some great staging, some powerful songs, costumes that are to die for as well as a little bit of humour. I have to admit that it isn’t until ‘Family’ in Act 1 when I really got into the musical. Similar to the film, I think it has a slow start up, with nothing too catchy song wise at the start. After Family, the plot thickens, the songs get better and it becomes a fantastical show to watch. Amber Riley, best known for playing Mercedes in Glee, is playing Effie White in the London production. Oh no, not when I had planned to go to the theatre. First I miss out on Sheridan Smith in Funny Girl, then I miss out on Glenn Close in Sunset Boulevard now Riley in Dreamgirls, this is not going well. I hope Amber is feeling much better and I understand this happens in live theatre, it is just annoying. As I genuinely type, I do wish Riley a speedy recovery and I hope to see you in something very soon. I think the production team must have flown in Broadway star, Marisha Wallace, as Effie White, as she was nowhere to be found in the programme. She was amazing although her ‘And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going’ was a bit flaky in parts, her other songs were cut throat and her stage presence was both sassy and comedic, just what you want from an Effie White (one of my favourite musical character names, me and Beez kept saying it after every sentence – I found it funny, ma Beez was stressed bless her, and apparently my French accent is good, not intentional of course).

Deena Jones (played by Beyonce in the film) was played by Liisi LaFontaine. I enjoyed LaFontaine, she had a good voice and is very beautiful. I particularly enjoyed Ibinabo Jack’s portrayal of Lorrell Robinson – she made me laugh and sang really well. The mean and villain (if any) in Dreamgirls is Curtis Taylor, who in this production is played by Joe Aaron Reid (amazing middle name I have to say). He played the role fantastically, although the “booo” he got at curtain call I thought was unfair but it does demonstrate how well an actor he was, we cheered so don’t worry. Jimmy Early, the comedic character (as can be guessed played by Eddie Murphy in the film), was played by Adam J Bernard, again a fantastic performance and he really got the audience involved when he was on stage, really enjoyable performance. The remaining Dreamgirls cast comprises Tyrone Huntley as CC White, Nicholas Bailey as Marty and Lily Frazer as Michelle Morris.

The Dreamgirls score is not like most musicals, for those modern musical fans it is similar to The Bodyguard in the sense that R and B music is used to tell a story (note; the score is original and not based on a particular artist like Bodyguard) but it is something you need to enjoy to love the musical. Tom Eyen provides book and lyrics with music by Henry Krieger and additional material by Willie Reale. These guys have brought us classics such as ‘Family’, ‘Dreamgirls’, ‘And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going’ (one of the best Act-1 endings, it is a fantastic song to attempt on karaoke and if my boyfriend attempts to break up with me, I have my Effie White performance down to a tea to get him to stay (lol!). Sorry I was talking about the songs and got distracted with my Effie White; ‘I Am Changing’, ‘One Night Only’ and of course ‘Listen’. Honestly these songs really get implanted in your head and you cannot stop singing or humming or dreaming about them, great songs.

Dreamgirls has been directed and choreographed by Casey Nicholaw. I loved the set design (by Olivier winner Tim Hatley, also known for Bodyguard and Shrek). As in Bodyguard, he has a great way of presenting a stage on a stage if that makes any sense. By changing the stage swiftly and smoothly from front of stage to backstage, while being on a stage, works so well. The various drops are so beautiful; it has given me new ideas for when I next decorate. Gregg Barnes (Kinky Boots, Aladdin), who is going to be my new stylist, costume designs and I cannot translate into a blog how amazing, spectacular and beautiful some of these designs were. In the programme there is a two-page spread on the designs and to see them come to life on the stage is gorgeous. The sparkly dresses which must weigh a tonne are so elegantly worn by those ladies; honestly, I have designed my wedding outfit based on Barnes’ work. I think I have an idea who is going to be up for costume design Olivier this year. Hugh Vanstone is our lighting designer for Dreamgirls. I always focus on the lighting in a musical, and this musical being based and telling the story of superstars, the lighting has be top notch; and it was. When you’re seeing a stage you feel like you’re at a music gig, when you’re in a side street bar, you feel like you’re there. It all makes perfect sense.

As I said for me there was a slow start to the story and you can get itchy feet. For me, half way through Act 1 and I am loving Dreamgirls. The songs are fantastic, I was singing along, the visuals of the show are amazing with the set, costumes and lighting all complimenting each other. You will leave the show singing, and I definitely annoyed the radius around us as I was practising my Effie White impression during the interval. If you have seen the film, you will enjoy the show. There aren’t too many changes and nothing major that I can recall. Dreamgirls is playing at the Savoy Theatre and bookings are being taken until October 2017. I would love to book again and try and see Amber Riley in the role of Effie, I have heard amazing things about her, but there is so much else I need to see in the West End (School of Rock, 42^nd Street, Half a Sixpence) so I don’t think I’ll get the opportunity to. I wish Dreamgirls an awesome run at the beautiful Savoy Theatre, and fingers crossed for some Olivier nominations, there are bound to be a few. Please get in touch on Twitter @AaronBurgess89 and look out for me as there are plenty of shows coming up over the next few months.

Beauty and the Beast panto @ Marina Theatre Lowestoft

So I was invited to another Panto over the weekend, this time it was Beauty and the Beast at the Marina Theatre in Lowestoft. I had to take my little niece Amelia. I took her last year to see Sleeping Beauty (and she didn’t stop talking about it for the whole year). This year she was so so so excited to see Beauty and the Beast. She has been so excited all week and when I got to my sister’s house to pick her up she was dressed head to toe, tiara included, in her Belle outfit and she looked like an adorable little princess, even though I am biased, I think you’ll agree she was very royal. We got to the Marina and I have to thank the staff for their warm and welcoming greeting. It was such a fun night, we both had lots of fun dancing in our seats, shouting out to the characters and Amelia absolutely loved it. I said to the Marina Theatre staff before we arrived that it is the child’s opinion more than mine that counts and I have to say, my niece absolutely loved it.

Paul Holman Associates have yet again produced this panto which has been sponsored by cottages.com. Most will know the story of Beauty and the Beast from the famous Disney version, this is the one myself and Amelia mostly know. The story shows quaint and quiet little Belle forced to live with a Beast in order to free her father. She soon starts to realise that the Beast is not as bad as she first envisaged and eventually falls in love with him, breaking the curse on the Beast and his enchanted castle. Obviously it is not that simple when you have a witch and a self-centred misogynist in the way but as with all fairy tales a happy ending is achieved. The beautiful Angela Lansbury song does not feature in this panto although we listened to it in the car to make up for that.

  Jeremy Edwards, best known for his roles in Holby City and Hollyoaks, stars in this year’s panto cast. Playing the role of Gaston, not exactly the villain of the show, but definitely no hero, he is seen as the heartthrob in the story but the only one who does not see things this way is Belle herself. Edwards made several naughty jokes during the performance which I am sure the adults will enjoy and the children won’t have a clue what’s going on. Terry Gleed returned to Lowestoft this year again in the comedic role, this time as Freddy. Gleed is a natural comic on stage and is very entertaining. He is very good and interactive with the audience and the smart fart thing at the end with the children from the audience had me in stitches. Fenton Gray joins the cast as Madame Cherie Trifle. I am pleased to know that Gray was once one of my favourite characters in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats, Gus the Theatre Cat. Gray has some very interesting costumes and attire in the panto, all of which were hilariously entertaining. I am absolutely gutted I missed the massage scene as Amelia needed to go to the toilet but I heard so many laughs from the auditorium, when I returned Gray was a cooked turkey – don’t ask just go find out for yourselves that’s all I can say. My favourite bit from Gray has to be his rendition of Beyoncé’s Single Ladies. I don’t think he will win an MTV award but he definitely entertained me.

Helen Jeckells duals as the Hagwitch and also choreographed the show. I spoke to her during rehearsals and she said how excited she was to be both on stage as the witch and behind the scenes as the choreographer. Jeckells performance was Amelia’s favourite and she spoke about how much she loved her voice, hair and costume. Matthew Wellman is the Beast and Prince. I really liked his performance and the tribute to Phantom of the Opera, he definitely had that phantom voice and presence on stage, and I thought his performance was great. Molly Howe is Fairy Rosebud and she is a very angelic and happy fairy on stage. I particularly loved her glittery flowery wand. Rosie Hale joins the cast as Belle and Graeme Henderson plays her father.     

There are lots of music, dancing, singing and of course with all pantos’ plenty of audience participation. It is very child friendly and definitely worth taking the children to see this year. Richard Cheshire has directed this panto and I have to admit there is plenty of entertainment for the adult audience too. Lots of comedy to be had by the whole family and the group of older ladies in front of me were definitely getting there monies worth by getting fully involved so you are bound to have some fun and laughter while at the Marina Theatre’s panto. There are usually two performances a day up until New Year’s Day but it is best to check the website for full details and check availability or alternatively phone the box office on (01522) 533 200. Hot off the press also, the panto for next year at the Marina Theatre will be Aladdin and I have to say my niece is already excited, asking when can we go; so as you can see it is a really fun night and we will definitely be returning next year to see Aladdin. Please get in touch on twitter @AaronBurgess89. And have a wonderful Christmas and all the best for 2017.

Jack and the Beanstalk Panto at Norwich Theatre Royal

It’s that time of year again, Christmas, which can mean only one thing, Panto season! So as you can all assume I was very excited last week when I went to see the Norwich Theatre Royal panto for 2016, Jack and the Beanstalk. After last year’s fantastic performance of Snow White I was super excited as you can imagine. I thought I would take Mother along with me as she loves a bit of theatre and audience participation. We went for a Nando’s before (of course now I get the 20% NHS discountJ). I tell you this as it features in the panto. I also cannot believe that I met Helen Fraser, best known in my eyes for playing Sylvia ‘BodyBag’ Hollamby in the ITV series Bad Girls (me and Mother were such great fans). And it was also fantastic to see darts sports personality Bobby George enjoying a bit of panto. We had such a great evening. Yes it is all a bit cheesy but I love cheese. The NTR panto is full of singing, dancing, great costumes, audience participation, rhyming couplets and a bit of entertainment for the adults. It is absolute great fun for all the family.

Jack and the Beanstalk panto for NTR is written, directed and starring Richard Gauntlett, playing the panto Dame Nigella Trottalot. I am a big fan of Gauntlett’s, seeing him last year in the panto was a great experience and he was a great dame again this year. I also saw him on the Gilbert and Sullivan tour in Pirates this year. He really engages well with the audience, makes them laugh loads and gets everyone involved. My mum particularly loved the Nando’s joke and she could not stop laughing for about 5 minutes, I think she may have annoyed some other patrons. I was a bit gutted that his outfits were not as outrageous as last year though, although I still hope we see Dicky next year for his 17^th year at NTR panto. The production is very professional and it honestly reflects some of the amazing touring musical productions I have seen throughout the year. The production has a western and country theme running through it which was fabulous. With a Dolly Parton themed introduction to the story and some country cheesy music alongside tributes to Oklahoma! And Guys and Dolls musicals I was in my element, so thank you for whoever decided to use these songs (musical director and arranger was David Carter).

The cast of the panto are fantastic; they all gel so well together on stage. The famous ballet dancer Wayne Sleep also stars in this production as the panto villain. He was ace as this character and reminded me of Beverley Leslie in the Will and Grace series, playing a slightly camp villain, which is not a bad thing. I loved the fact he did some dancing throughout the show and a good tap dance at the end. I absolutely loved Dolly the Fairy (guess who she was based upon) played by Harriet Bunton. Bunton had a great country accent and her singing voice was lovely, I would actually like to hear her sing the 9 to 5 song with the real words. The heart throb from last year’s panto, David Burilin, returned again this year as titled character Jack, playing the role very well. David Gant is there playing the Sheriff. Ben Langley has returned to play the ‘fool’ (I am not sure of the professional term J) in this year’s performance in the role of Silly Billy, Jack’s brother. Langley is fantastic in the show, he has a fantastic comedic stage presence and his relationship with Gauntlett on stage is priceless to watch. He interacts perfectly with the audience members of all ages. The funniest part was at the end when some children from the audience were invited up to sing old McDonald Farm. It was so funny, I can’t actually explain how much I was laughing, I think the horse noise will make me laugh for many weeks to come.  I have to say the set of panto babes from the Central School of Dancing and Performing Arts were hilarious, especially the little one who plays the little yellow chick – she was actually amazing. I am not sure which set we saw (blue, orange or red), but they were fantastic, and they all deserve a round of applause.

The effects in the performance are brilliant. The working waterfall on stage last year was fantastic but the giant this year is amazing. I was wondering before the show how the giant would be portrayed on stage and how the beanstalk would grow. It really was great and who knew inflatables aren’t just for bouncing on or floating on. The giant comes to life and the audience sets eyes on a talking, blinking giant. One girl was crying in the interval, but I have to say I think the majority of children will not find him too scary. Kirsteen Wythe has created the costumes again this year. The curtain call (wedding) outfits for the whole cast were gorgeous.  The sparkles, glitter, colours and elegance were beautiful to see. Some of the Dame’s costumes were high-class but I did not think they had the same pizazz as last year. The scenery was amazing as I have said before it really does resemble some of the amazing touring musical productions from this year, on occasions surpassing them by a lot, congratulations goes to Scenic Pantomimes from Lowestoft.

The Norwich Theatre Royal’s panto of Jack and the Beanstalk is a fantastic and professional show and is definitely worth watching this festive period. You will be guaranteed all the usual aspects of a panto that make them so much fun as well as fantastic happy feeling as you leave once the show has come to its end. The whole family, whether you are 2 or 92, will enjoy the show, there is something in this production for all, you are bound to enjoy. The show runs from now until Sunday 15^th January 2017. There are countless of performances from now until the end of the run and it is best to visit the website, just click on the link above. As can be predicted the showings during December are either sold out or limited availability with more ticket options available for the January showings, so hurry up and get yours. I am now getting ready and excited for next year’s panto which will be Sleeping Beauty, I believe tickets are available already for next year and there is a discount on the good seats if you pay by February 2017. I have some more posts to write but if you don’t read them I hope you all have a fantastic Christmas and all the best for 2017, please get in touch @AaronBurgess89.

The Committments on tour, Norwich Theatre Royal

On the evening of the 28^th November 2016 moi and le boyfriend, Ben, went to the Norwich Theatre Royal to see the touring version of the smash hit West End musical, The Commitments. I have to say we are quite enjoying our early week evenings popping to the NTR for a glass of vino and a musical show; plus the silly pictures and videos we take. Well we had a really great night; even the encore at the end by the cast was thoroughly welcomed, despite the urgency for the loo. I first went to see The Commitments in October last year with Nanny Cora at The Palace Theatre where it was coming to end of its run (and just as this blog was starting out – check out the previous blog here). I remember when I wrote the previous blog post for this that I said I liked the musical but was not blown away by it. I had recently seen Sunny Afternoon in London at the time and, for me, this was a much better musical centring on a band. FYI Sunny Afternoon is due to arrive next year on tour at Norwich Theatre Royal so keep your eyes out for this. Despite saying this I really had a great time at The Commitments and found it much more entertaining the second time around. Maybe it was more familiar this time or being in a smaller theatre making it a much more intimate or maybe it was something else, who knows.

The Commitments is based on the 1987 novel by Roddy Doyle which later was transformed into a musical film in 1991. The book, musical film and stage adaptation tells the story of a young Irish soul fan who wants to assemble his own soul band in the mid-1980’s in Dublin. He has a mix of characters that want to be in his band, and as you can guess it, with a mix of individual personalities there are bound to be some fall outs, romances and eternal friendships. The Commitments is known as a jukebox musical and takes some of the most classic songs from the soul era and transforms them all into a visually fantastic story/musical. There are over 40 fantastic soul songs that feature in this musical and no way can I name them all; see the previous post for a few. But it is fantastic to hear all these classic tunes amalgamated into an on-stage musical. As I discussed with Judy Foster, Norwich Theatre Royal’s communications officer on the night, it was absolutely brilliant hearing all these songs transformed into a modern musical. A couple of my favourites were Proud Mary and River Deep, Mountain High, and I think one of the ones that got Ben toe-tapping (LOL!) was Think, of course by Aretha; other soul classics feature are those by James Brown, Stevie Wonder and Smokey Robinson. It is an absolute gem; the only problem is that with so many classic songs some of them are not played in full and only feature as a small reference point in the show.

With direction, additional staging and choreography by Caroline-Jay and Denise Ranger this musical will definitely entertain even the slightest soul fan, let alone a real fanatic. I really liked the set of The Commitments; it stuck very close to its West End version which I believe is really important for a touring production. Soutra Gilmour (also costume designer) transforms the stage frequently from a decrepit garage to a less decrepit stage. However saying this it really gives the audience the honest and authentic raw nature of seeing a live band. I have to say there weren’t many changes from the West End version and it is just as good (and even better in my mind) on tour. As with any musical that tries to recreate live bands and singers there has to be that lighting effect that makes you feel like you are actually at a real gig. Jon Clark definitely achieves this, despite nearly blinding us all at the end during the encore.

A few of the main guys in the musical have joined the touring cast from their time on the show in London. I saw Brian Gilligan in the role of Deco at the Palace Theatre who reprises his role on this tour. He originally played Billy Moody in the musical however he is much better suited in the role of Deco. Although his character is a bit of a difficult band-mate, nicest way to put it I think, I really enjoy his singing voice and energy on stage. Gilligan is also a very big crowd pleaser during the encore which really ends the show on a feel good footing. The non-singing character in the musical, Jimmy Rabbitte, is played by Andrew Linnie, who originated the role of Dean, but later played the role of Jimmy too and I cannot remember if it was him I saw when I went in London. But he is a great character and actor, just a shame he doesn’t have one full song. The role of Jimmy’s Da (and Caretaker) is played by Kevin Kennedy, best known for his role as the sex symbol Curly for many years in Coronation Street, alongside one of my favourite British acting talents, Sarah Lancashire. I was supposed to see Kennedy in the role of Pop in We Will Rock You at The Dominion, but he wasn’t there the night I went which was a shame. So I was really looking forward to seeing him in The Commitments. The only problem was he isn’t in it much. He is definitely the funny character in the show, with his Irish swearing, but a lack of scenes and singing was a little disappointing.

The remaining characters of the band are all very talented musicians and as many of you know as I repeat this all the time I really enjoy it when the characters play musical instruments live on stage (of course when it is relevant and adds to the show). This definitely is needed as you can well assume in The Commitments but it is great. The transitions from practicing in the garage to being at a gig are very smooth. I also love the female backing singing trio, the Committmentettes (not sure on spelling) as I did in the original West End performance. This time the trio were portrayed by Amy Penston (as Natalie), Leah Penston (as Imelda; coincidence or sisters – not sure?) and Christina Tedders (as Bernie). These three have great stage presence and really soulful singing voices which was lovely.

If you love soul music, or even just enjoy some of that style of music The Commitments is a great show to see, especially while this fantastic West End revival is right on the Norfolk doorstep. As Ben said it is actually a really good feel-good musical and it makes you smile and laugh throughout; and even a bit of dancing maybe (I am sure me and Nanny Cora had a boogie in the Palace seats). The show is at the NorwichTheatre Royal until Saturday 3^rd December. There are limited seats for the remaining performances, 7:30 on the evenings and a 2:30 matinee on the Saturday. Check out the theatre website for what’s on for the rest of the year and remember this year’s panto, starring ballet dancer Wayne Sleep, Jack and the Beanstalk starts on December 13^th – it’s nearly CHRISTMAS!!! Please get in touch, would love to hear from some of you @AaronBurgess89.

Breakfast at Tiffany's, Norwich Theatre Royal

The evening of Monday 14^th November 2016 me and the boyfriend went to see the opening night of Breakfastat Tiffany’s at the Norwich Theatre Royal (I think I’ve got him hooked on musicals and theatre shows now, let’s hope he reads this and gets me a West End ticket for Christmas or my birthday next year – hint hint!!). We had a lovely time and really enjoyed the play. I first saw Breakfast at Tiffany’s in April of this year at The Grand in Leeds which starred Pixie Lott before she starred in the West End version of the play. I am so pleased I got to see the show again, despite a different Holly Golightly, as I now understand the story so much better. Also I have not yet watched the film as I had promised in my previous blog post about the show, maybe I will by the time I see the show again, if I do. I hope not to repeat myself too much in this post, but as I said the cast were very much the same. Which I have to say makes me commend them all, as I did not feel at all like the cast, for at least the past seven months, have been doing the same show every night which just shows the quality and talent of this elegant play and those in it.

You can read a bit of the background of Breakfast at Tiffany’s from my previous post, please go have a look at. This play is based on Truman Capote's novella which was also transformed into the much loved film starring Audrey Hepburn. In this production Holly Golightly, the protagonist of the play, is played by Georgia May Foote, best known for her role as Katy Armstrong in Coronation Street. I thought Foote was a fantastic Holly Golightly and her voice gave me genuine flashbacks to Lott’s portrayal of the same famous character. She had the flirtation down to a tea as well as the spontaneity and mystery that Golightly occupies. She also sings in this production although I definitely have a feeling she didn’t sing as much as Lott did in the earlier productions (this may be a complete mistake on my part so I apologise if so). However saying that, I absolutely enjoyed Foote’s singing and it was really nice, I particularly love the song Moon River. I am not a big fan of soap operas, however Ben watches them from time to time and he did say it was hard to get the picture of her in Coronation Street out of his mind while watching her on stage as an American socialite, which I can understand as I have experienced the same with other performances from different people.

Matt Barber (as Fred) and Victor McGuire (as Joe Bell) continue in the show and both play great roles, particularly Barber, I really liked his portrayal as Fred as I did last time. Two people I didn’t mention last time but who I really enjoyed this time were: David Cardy as O J Berman and Melanie La Barrie as Mme Spanella and Stern Lady Boss (love that character name). I thought La Barrie was the funniest of the night. She really made me laugh, especially when she was skating about the stage (so random). She has been in loads of musicals too which is great, I would love to see her sing in the near future. Cardy I am sure was not in the previous production I saw in Leeds but I would have to check this out digging out my programme. I saw Cardy in Made in Dagenham and I hear him often on the soundtrack which frequently features as my travelling to and from work album. This time the role of Mag, who is also very funny, was played by Katy Allen and I also very much enjoyed her drunken southern accent. And guess what, Bob the Cat was back, I cannot believe he is still in it, he has been so busy, he must be the richest cat I know (not that I know him personally). Bob still gets the biggest “awwwwws” of the night. What was especially funny was as we were heading for the car after the show we saw Bob the Cat getting in his taxi, he has his own taxi, this cat lives in style, bloody hilarious.

I remember saying in my last blog post that Breakfast at Tiffany’s is a great play and really enjoyable to watch but not a terrible amount goes on. I have since changed my mind second time round. I understand the storyline much better and understand Holly’s behaviour so much more. I have to say that Act one is a little slow but by Act two I am really into the play and what Holly is doing and where she is going. I mentioned this last time but I am a massive fan of the set (Matthew Wright, who was also costume designer). Despite a big mistake and the wrong drop coming down (which I forgave) I love the details of the bedrooms. From the ripped wall paper to the dirty tea towel it all just feels so professional and real. I still don’t understand the colour of the turquoise and its prominence in the play but maybe this is related to the film somehow. I particularly like the scaffolding thing that you often see in American films (Pretty Woman, which she climbs down) and the use of this within the story. Ben Cracknell’s lighting is also amazingly effective, from rain to paparazzi it all fits into place as part of the wider story.

Breakfast at Tiffany’s finishes its current tour at the Norwich Theatre Royal this weekend. Tickets are still available for the Thursday and Friday evening performances, both Saturday’s matinee and evening performances have very limited tickets left and I would hazard a guess these will be sold out by the time Saturday arrives (I cannot believe another week has nearly past us). It is a really enjoyable show; most play enthusiasts will really enjoy Breakfast at Tiffany’s and this is coming from a musical addict remember. And on different news from the Norwich Theatre Royal some new shows have been announced which will soon be arriving on our Norfolk doorstep, which is extremely exciting. Fantastic musicals including Sister Act, Funny Girl and Running Wild are due to arrive and family classics including Fantastic Mr Fox and Granny Gangsta. 2017 is going to be a very special year at the Theatre Royal and don’t forget this year’s panto, Jack and the Beanstalk will soon be here (13^th December to 15^th January), tickets are now available. Please get in touch; I would love to hear from some of the people reading the posts AaronBurgess89.

Chicago at Norwich Theatre Royal

Another visit to the Theatre RoyalNorwich on Tuesday night (31^st October) to see the touring production of Chicago The Musical, hereafter referred to as simply Chicago (I always pronounce it as Chic-A-Go after Peter Kay). I was originally meant to be going with my fabulous Bezzie, Kaz, however after a horrible incident with her car (hope it gets sorted soon Beez) and me having assessments the following day on the new job I took along my boyfriend Ben for our first live musical experience together. We both had a lovely time and really enjoyed this production of Chicago. Similar to my last review, The Sound of Music, the filmed version of the musical is so well known and starring the likes of Renėe Zellweger, Richard Gere, Catherine Zeta Jones and John C Reilly, so many people think they will see a carbon copy of what a film shows the audience. No, no, no, that is not the case with a stage (or film) adaptation, there are changes and differences, some slight, some huge. I really enjoyed the stage version of Chicago, the first time I have seen it on stage (I have seen the movie a few times of course). It is really worth seeing at the Theatre Royal, tickets are available for Thursday evening performance (7:30pm) but all others are sold out so keep an eye out for re-sales or phone the box office (01603 63 00 00).

Chicago is a vaudeville musical using aspects of song and dance, mime, acrobats, circus, puppetry and ventriloquism as well as other forms of theatrical entertainment to tell it’s story. This story being about murder, adultery, fame, cheats, lies, relationships and corruption – how cheerful I hear you cry. This musical has lyrics by Fred Ebb and music by John Kander (another well-known Kander and Ebb musical of course being Cabaret). The original book was also by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse (Fosse also directing and choreographing the original Broadway production in 1975). Chicago has some fantastic numbers that are recreated in the 2002 film; however what the film didn’t show us was some of the other classic songs. One song you will know and love is ‘All That Jazz’ sung by Velma Kelly at the very start of the performance. Kander and Ebb are also to thank for the other Chicago hits including, ‘Cell Block Tango’, ‘When You’re Good to Mama’, ‘All I Care About’, ‘A Little Bit of Good’ (not in the film), ‘We Both Reached for the Gun’, ‘Mister Cellophane’, ‘Razzle Dazzle’ and the amazing finale which is pure fabulousness. I have to say the Chicago soundtrack is great to listen to and of course with the vaudeville theme running through the whole musical there are some beautiful variations in performance and style so you will definitely not get bored.

As many readers of this blog will know I love it when the orchestra are on stage throughout the performance. I love it as they get their own spot in the lime light which is so well deserved. Often hidden below the stage or off into the wings the audience can quickly forget there is a band creating all this wonderful music. Well when the curtain went up and the full band that were presented to me I gasped. I think Ben thought I was gasping at the male dancer who happened to be topless, but no, it was the band on stage that did it for me, honest! The ten-piece orchestra was directed by Leon Charles and he himself was a full member of the cast by the end, shouting to the audience, dancing in his box, leaning over his box with some interesting dance choices. Yeah he deserved his round of applause and even more. Ben commented saying how much he enjoyed the orchestrations and for him one of the best bits of the production was the band, it was great. I thought the stage direction and movement was wonderful to watch however one thing I didn’t really understand was the ensemble sat on the side of the stage when not performing. I have seen this executed well in other musicals (such as Once), however it did not appear to add anything to the story or music and therefore I felt this was not necessary in this production. 

I have to admit that the staging is very minimal and I am not sure if this is coming from the original stage production, but this is a problem when musicals are made into films as a stripped back musical can be completely changed. I have to admit I didn’t mind the minimalistic stage design (John Lee Beatty) but it was a shame that there wasn’t more costume changes (William Ivey Long) with more than just Black as the predominant colour choice. I have to say the costumes were all very sensual and sexual which is great for Chicago, I guess I like a bit of glitz and colour, especially for a finale of any musical act. Ken Billington’s lighting was something I did very much enjoy, apart from when the first court room scene appears on stage as I was nearly blinded, but generally fabulous mood and scene setting by Billington.

The star of the show for me has to be Hayley Tamaddon who plays Roxie Hart (I sometimes think I could have been Roxie Hart, as if I had been born a girl this was what my Mother was going to call me). Tamaddon was a brilliant Roxie Hart. She is perhaps best known for her soap roles in Emmerdale and more recently Coronation Street and I think when you know a soap star you don’t ever think about their singing voice (this is a theme of this post). Well Tamaddon has an amazing voice, best on the stage that night I think. She had power and sass which is what you need when singing as poor little viper, Roxie. Tamaddon also had the comedic ability to play the role; she was funny and had the audience laughing out loud with her shenanigans on stage. What I also loved about Tamaddon was how much fun she was having on stage, she clearly loved being up there and playing the role of Roxie which to me means everything. Jessie Wallace, also best known for her portrayal as Kat Slater in EastEnders, again someone you don’t automatically think of as having a great voice. Wallace plays Matron ‘Mama’ Morton, the keeper of the keys down at the prison. Wallace has a great voice and it was so strange hearing her with an American accent and not that London spark (“Oh yes I am your mother” – brilliant). Slater reminded me of Karen in the hit US comedy Will and Grace, not sure why but she did. The only problem with playing Mama Morton is you are not on stage that much which was a huge shame. A D Richardson plays Mary Sunshine, one of my favourite characters who is certainly undervalued in the film as the character loses her song and is featured less. Richardson is a very convincing (SPOILER ALERT) woman in the musical and if that was his actual signing voice, standing ovation to you, loved it! It was so good at one point it felt like he could have been miming, he is a fun and funny Mary Sunshine, and we all know a female impersonator on stage gets my vote every time.

Neil Ditt portrayed Amos, the poor husband of Roxie who is almost invisible to the rest of society. I feel so sorry for Amos and the audience agreed with me as he was receiving so much sympathy every time he walked off stage. A great version of Mister Cellophane was sang by Ditt. Sophie Carmen-Jones plays Velma Kelly, a sadistic entertainer who will kill if she needs to, although she also suffers amnesia it seems. I have to say I was not blown away with Carmen-Jones performance and I thought her singing voice was poor compared to her fellow thespians. I loved her solo dance numbers and when dancing with the rest of the company but it was the singing that just didn’t get me going unfortunately. John Partridge (better known for playing Christian in EastEnders – see what I mean I felt like I was at the National Soap Opera Awards) plays Billy Flynn. Now maybe this is because Richard Gere played Flynn in the film but I felt like Partridge camped up the role. Don’t get me wrong, I love a camp character on stage and I look forward to seeing Partridge in La Cage Aux Folles early in 2017 at Norwich where I am sure he will camp it up. However for me, Billy Flynn is a flirtatious man who will use his charm and demur to get whatever he wants and needs; and I just wasn’t getting that from Partridge. I know he can do it as I have seen the filmed version of Cats countless times where he plays the Rum Tum Tugger, the sexiest cat of them all, so I was slightly disappointed.

Chicago is at Norwich Theatre Royal until Saturday 5^th November 2016, as I said only Thursday evening has tickets available. It is well worth a see but remember if you have only ever seen the film go with a fresh and open mind and don’t expect to see the film copied onto stage. It is a fun night and I have certainly been singing some of the songs today. After Norwich Chicago is due to visit Leeds, Sunderland, and Birmingham and please check the website for casting changes as I feeling there may be some. Hopefully you will get to see it somewhere is not hopefully a new tour will arrive soon. Chicago still plays in Broadway and a US tour is currently underway so that is always an excuse to visit the states. Please get in touch on Twitter, AaronBurgess89, would love to hear some comments from you all.

The Sound of Music, Norwich Theatre Royal

Last Tuesday evening (18^th October) me and my sister Fern went to see The Sound of Music at the NorwichTheatre Royal. Before we start I would like to dedicate this post to Charmian Carr who recently passed away; Carr played Liesl in the film version. I know the show has now moved on from Norwich and I apologise about my tardiness with this post. I have recently moved into a new house and am still waiting for my internet connection to be up and running and what with the hectic move and still recently into a new job, it has caused problems with being able to write and post. However, enough with my issues on with the blog. I have to start with a caveat; I am the biggest fan of the film version of The Sound of Music. It has been my favourite film since a very young age and I spent most of my early childhood weekends watching the film over and over again. At one point I watched the ‘So Long, Farewell’ scene so many times that the video was distorted in this section. Well now I have a DVD version which is great, so long as it doesn’t get scratched. I hadn’t seen a stage version of the show until last Christmas, I believe it was ITV who aired a live filmed production, based on the original 1959 stage production, naturally I was very excited. You can imagine my face when I witnessed how different the stage show is from the film. If you are someone of a similar position to mine and a huge fan of the film you may be slightly disappointed with the stage show as there are multiple differences. For example the song order is different, some songs are sang in different formats by different people, different characters say different things and there seems to be a bigger political theme in the stage show.

This production ran for a week at the Norwich Theatre Royal and I am aware that the subsequent performances from my show were sold out which is great news. The audience absolutely loved the show and a deserved standing ovation was delivered at the end of the performance, which me and the sis were a part of. Lucy O’Byrne (possibly best known as runner-up in The Voice UK) plays Maria Rainer. I have to say her voice was not the best for me and seemed less powerful than some of her fellow cast members. Again I refer to my caveat earlier in this post, being a mega fan of Julie Andrews I don’t think anyone can and will ever play the role like she, and like any musical character each actor or actress brings their own stamp to any role. I just think the role of Maria has been given a huge stamp by Andrews no one will ever live up to this role. My sister said she liked her voice and the typical songs Maria sings which we used to simulate as children, of course mas as Maria.

Captain von Trapp is played by Coronation Street’s Frank Foster, real name Andrew Lancel. I was not blown away by his performance but it wasn’t bad in anyway. I particularly enjoyed the singing performance of the Mother Abbess played by Jan Hartley and her rendition of ‘Climb Ev’ry Mountain’ made me go tingly. It was interesting to read that Hartley originally played Maria in a subsequent production in the West End which I thought was a great coincidence. I also really loved Lucy Van Gasse as Baroness (Elsa) Schraeder who gave a great performance both vocally and visually, she gives the Baroness that mean stance yet sings beautifully. Those who have only seen the film will be saying the Baroness doesn’t sing, well she has two songs in the stage version which is one of the things that would have been nice to keep in the film, I particularly loved the song ‘How Can Love survive?’ which should be downloaded by any Sound of Music fan who hasn’t seen the stage show. Comedic performance of the night has to go to Howard Samuels who plays Max Detweiler, although Max seems much more camp in the stage version compared to film Max.

The Children were good and got some very positive and warm reactions from the audience, especially little Gretl (I can just see my niece playing her). The constant of the children is Annie Holland who plays Liesl, a very good dancer with the ‘Sixteen Going On Seventeen’ number with her partner Kane Verrall playing Rolf. I am not sure if the rest of the child cast were played by a touring group of children or local children. I know some touring productions of musicals use local children whereas others use a touring child cast who stay with the show. I think I know who the children were played by in the performance I saw but if I get it wrong I am very sorry. I think any child actor gathering the guts to get on stage and sing and dance deserves a mention in any write up of a show. So here goes: Louis Rice plays Friedrich; Grace Fox plays Louisa; Joe Hubbard-Bateman plays Kurt; Lucy Grant plays Brigitta; Emily Daw plays Marta; and, Alana Willis plays Gretl.

I haven’t given a history of TheSound of Music like I do in many of my other posts, I think because I just assume everyone knows what the story is. If not Wikipedia is there for everyone to use, no point me just re-typing using different words. What I will do is pay tribute to one of the most loved and talented musical writers in history, Rodgers and Hammerstein. Clearly The Sound of Music is my favourite RandD musical. Why? I hear you all shout. Well it is down to the joyful, loving and inspirational music (Richard Rodgers) and lyrics (Oscar Hammerstein II) created. With classics including the title song, ‘Do-Re-Mi’, ‘My Favourite Things’, ‘The Lonely Goatherd’, ‘Maria’, ‘Edelweiss’  as well as those already mentioned, The sound of Music becomes one of the most well-loved musicals of all time. I am sure a recent poll had it at number 2. Unfortunately the stage show does not include ‘I Have Confidence’ as this was written for the film and after the untimely death of Hammerstein and Rodgers wrote this song alone.

Bill Kenwright’s production of The Sound of Music continues to tour the UK and is set to visit The New Wimbledon Theatre before it finishes. Coming up at the Norwich Theatre Royal is a ballet version of Beauty and the Beast, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, The Commitments, Chicago and of course this year’s panto which is Jack and the Beanstalk starring some of last year's favourites. For information on tickets either visit the website or call the box office on 01603 63 00 00. This has been a fantastic year for the Theatre Royal and I just know 2017 is going to be even better. Please get in touch on twitter AaronBurgess89